ENCOURAGEMENT – to inspire with courage, spirit, or hope; giving hope or promise.
What can encourage us like a gentle whisper or a confirming embrace from our God? Who can inspire us to keep moving forward like the Spirit of the Lord?
We are privileged in the fact that we can talk to the Lord at any given time. We don’t have to have an appointment, nor do we have to wait to be next in line to talk to Him. I find encouragement in that alone. We also have access to His written word, the most powerful book that will ever be written. The Bible provides so many passages on encouragement; we just have to read, believe, and apply those words to our lives.
Then there is praise and worship. The awesome thing about praise and worship is that God unselfishly allows us to share in the experience. Although we are expressing our love and gratitude to Him, He in turn shares His expressions of gratefulness and love for us and there is a wonderful spiritual exchange. You may have been feeling a little down in your spirit when you initially began praising Him but, before it was all over you discovered that your countenance had changed, and you were able to lift your head once again.
God always wants the absolute best for His children. Take confidence in knowing that God is not only with you but, He is also for you.
Reflections
1. What does God’s word encourage you to do?
2. If you are going through something right now and feeling somewhat discouraged, meditate on the following promise taken from Isaiah 40:29
“He gives power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increases strength”
3. What is the Lord saying to you through Isaiah 40:29?
4. If you find yourself lacking strength or feeling weak remind the Lord of His word and ask Him to fill you with His power and to increase your strength. Always remember to be totally honest with Him about your feelings. God honors truth and He will answer you!
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